Iran Eases Strait of Hormuz Limits for Iraqi Ship

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Iran has allowed Iraqi vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This decision comes amidst pressure from the United States regarding the blockade of the global energy route.

The Central Headquarters of Khatam al-Anbiya in Iran has declared this liberation as a form of respect for Iraq's sovereignty. In a statement quoted by the Tasnim news agency, Iran emphasized that only the countries considered as "enemies" would remain subject to restrictions in that strategic strait. "We hold profound respect for Iraq’s national sovereignty. You are a nation that bears the scars of American occupation, and your struggle against the US is worthy of praise and admiration," said an Iranian military commander as reported by Al-Jazeera.

According to The Straits Times, this statement could potentially reopen the shipment of up to three million barrels of Iraqi oil per day.

This announcement comes just days after a French container ship and a Japanese oil tanker crossed the route, seemingly being the first vessels associated with Western countries to make the transit since the conflict effectively led Iran to close off the waterway.

This move by Tehran comes after U.S. President Donald Trump renewed pressure on Iran to open access to the Strait of Hormuz or make a deal promptly. Trump even warned of significant consequences within 48 hours if the demand was not met.

Iran rejected the ultimatum, deeming it an irrational threat.

Since the conflict with the U.S. and Israel erupted in late February 2026, Iran has effectively restricted traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a route through which around 20 percent of the world's oil and gas supplies pass. Although the number of vessels transiting has increased in recent weeks, trade volume remains well below normal.

Vessel tracking data shows that only 53 ships passed through the strait in the past week, up from 36 the previous week. However, this figure is still more than 90 percent lower than the normal conditions before the conflict.

Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have had a direct impact on the global energy market. Brent crude oil prices have remained above US$109 per barrel in recent days. Several analysts estimate that oil prices could soar higher if this distribution route is not fully reopened.

Iraq is one of the most affected countries. Due to export disruptions, its oil production has decreased drastically from 4.3 million barrels per day to around 1.2 million barrels. Despite being the sixth-largest oil producer in the world, Iraq contributes approximately 4 percent to the global supply.

Although Iran has begun to relax access for Iraq, restrictions on other countries indicate that tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have not subsided. As long as the conflict continues, the world's most vital energy route remains in the shadow of crisis.

Read: Trump Gives Iran 48 Hours to Open Strait of Hormuz or Face 'Hell'

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